When you decide to paint the outside of your home, choosing the color is an important decision. However, it’s just as important to choose the right type of Exterior paint.
Every paint consists of solvents, pigments, and binders, though for exterior usage, the binder is the biggest decision factor. It is what gives the paint durability, texture, and water resistance.
Read on to find out more about the different types of exterior paints for your home.
1. Latex Paint
Latex paint is one of the most popular choices because it is budget-friendly and water-based. When you choose a latex paint for exterior use, it will work best on siding, porches, and patios. It expands and contracts with fluctuating temperatures while adding a mildew-resistant coating to your home. You’ll find it in many colors, though it is best to have a professional apply it since it will require primer and prepping.
2. Acrylic Paint
Another water-based paint that works well on home exteriors is acrylic paint. It works beautifully on most exterior surfaces but it is not as durable when compared to oil-based paints. It’s also a bit more expensive, which can take a toll on your budget when you need to cover a lot of area.
One excellent quality of acrylic paint is that it is porous, allowing water to escape. Since it doesn’t trap water, it resists mildew and won’t bubble. When you have a professional take over the task of exterior painting for your home, they will know which type of acrylic paint to use on your home’s surfaces.
3. Oil-Based Paint
Many homeowners love oil-based exterior paints because they are very durable. Oil-based paints can withstand severe elements. They are water-resistant and scratch-resistant, giving your home a smooth and uniform appearance. Professional painting services can ensure that oil-based paints are applied correctly, something that is important since those paints can trap water. You don’t want the paint to bubble or have mold or mildew trapped underneath it.
Oil-based paints for the exterior are excellent for high-traffic areas; however, you should use them with caution as this type of paint tends to release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can cause health problems. They do create a gorgeous finish that tends to be accomplished with only one coat applied.
4. Alkyd Paint
Similar to oil-based paints, alkyd paints are often put into the same category. The difference is that pigments are dissolved in an alkyd resin that has been cut with a thinner rather than suspended in the oil. In other words, it provides the same performance as an oil-based paint but it applies with the same ease as a water-based paint.
If you’re looking for durability, alkyd paint is worth your consideration for the exterior of your home. It shouldn’t be used indoors as it has even higher levels of VOCs than oil-based paints.
5. Epoxy Paint
While epoxy paint is an acrylic latex, it is not the same as an acrylic latex paint. It contains a little epoxy to make it stronger and give it greater longevity over traditional paint. It’s a great choice since you don’t have to apply two different products to get the benefits of acrylic and epoxy.
Epoxy paint is quite durable and waterproof, though you should be careful if you’re using it on your exterior deck or porch. It tends to be slippery when it gets wet. It also can bubble, crack, and chip.
6. Elastomeric Paint
One last option for paint types to apply to the exterior of your home is elastomeric paint. It acts like a liquid form of rubber, which makes it ideal for resisting harsh weather conditions. Often, it is the preferred choice for exterior masonry such as brick, concrete, or stucco.
While it is wonderfully durable, it is tricky to apply, though a professional will be able to give you the perfect finish you want. This heavy paint can peel away from your home in time and takes a while to dry. Since many coats are required, it can be one of the most expensive types of exterior paint to use on your home.
What Else You Need to Know About Exterior Paint
While the paint formula is a huge consideration for the outside of your home, the finish is also something to think about. You will see flat or matte types of exterior paints that have no sheen or gloss. In fact, they can seem a bit chalky, which is why they’re not often selected for exterior paint jobs.
Eggshell finishes have a slight sheen and since they are easy to clean and provide scratch resistance, they are a popular option. Satin finishes are glossier and more durable, which can give your home a brighter appearance but they can reveal your home’s imperfections.
If you’re looking to enhance your trim, semi-gloss paints work best. There are also high gloss paints that work well in these applications but aren’t recommended for the entire exterior.
Conclusion
Remember, paint is an investment in your home’s protection and curb appeal. Choose wisely because there are different types of exterior paints in the market so choose a paint with beautiful and long-lasting finish! The best way to get results you’ll love for years to come is to discuss your vision with a professional. You can visit Universal Roofing & Exteriors to learn more about painting the outside of your home.
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